Phnom Penh: The three-day boat racing event, part of the annual Water Festival celebration in Cambodia, concluded this afternoon with great success and joy. The event was held under the royal presidency of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia.

According to Agence Kampuchea Presse, the closing ceremony was attended by notable figures including Senate President and President of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King, Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, National Assembly President Samdech Moha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, and Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet along with his spouse. The ceremony also saw the presence of parliamentarians, senior government officials, foreign diplomats, and other distinguished guests.

During the event, His Majesty presided over the traditional Kat Proat ceremony, marking the end of the boat racing. The king also conferred trophies on the winning teams, acknowledging their achievements. T
his year’s competition saw nearly 348 boats with over 22,042 rowers from across Cambodia participating, highlighting the significance of the boat racing as a central event of the Water Festival held from November 14 to 16.

Although the official ceremonies concluded, entertainment programs continued until midnight, with thousands of spectators cheering and celebrating the event, adding to the festive atmosphere.